Troublemaker and Other Saints

I found this book so refreshing. The series of cleverly intertwined short stories was a perfect change of pace after being an avid novel reader for so long. Each story kept me captivated and wanting more. The only thing I didn't like about the book was that it ended.

Christina's stories of the Asian culture is exact and emotional. When I first took a look at it, I thought it was going to be another "Joy luck Club", as many of the Asian-American writer's novels turn out to be. Thankfully, this is a breath of fresh air.If you're looking to become a little more intuned with our culture--this is the book to help you get started. Quite an intelligent a read, and has its moments of sad humor as well.Well written. And I can't wait for her new novel to come out!

Nowadays there are so many Asian/Asian-American writers and they all seem rather similiar in terms of themes. The stories in this book are different, touching on issues of suicide, eating disorders, mental illness, and sexuality. I love the way the stories all tied in together. I'm happy to read an Asian American book that does not beat down the issue of mother-daughter relationships, or adjusting to American life. This is a great alternative for those of you who are sick of the Amy Tan type books. I can't wait for more!

"Troublemaker" is a wonderful read of short intertwined stories. What make these stories work(apart from the delicious dialogue) is the rollercoaster of emotion the author puts you on. My suggestion to all, is pick the book up, strap yourself in and enjoy the well-written ride. You will not be disappointed.Looking forward to more from this gifted writer.

"With her explosive Troublemaker and Other Saints, Christina Chiu has accomplished what only Lucinda Williams is able to do in songs-turn serious topics, such as suicide and unhappy romance, into celebrations of life. Chiu takes us further into the "heart of darkness," until it isn't dark anymore. Her vibrant prose and unflinching voice restore our belief that no matter how up-and-down our lives can become, everything is bearable if it's well told." --Hal Sirowitz, author of Mother Said"Troublemaker and Other Saints is full of intriguing situations and great conversations. In describing how Chinese immigrants deal with their American kids, Christina Chiu reveals all our misunderstandings and hopes. I loved every page and would read anything this woman writes!" --Alice Elliott Dark, author of In the Gloaming: Stories"These compelling tales of loneliness and loss, hunger and need, the pain and crazy love for family will break your heart, and strangely, leave you feeling uplifted." --Mei Ng, author of Eating Chinese Food Naked"These are accomplished stories, with the mark of a true storyteller who brings the reader a wide range of perspectives and believable points of view." --Elizabeth Strout, author of Amy and Isabelle "With rude wit and raw emotional force, an impressive first collection . . . Chiu weaves gracefully among her characters' stories. Wonderfully involving and intelligent work, from a strikingly gifted new writer." --Kirkus Reviews"A rich but wholly edible slice of diverse contemporary Chinese American life. Chiu's 11 stories are so tightly woven together that they read like a novel. After tasting this creative morsel, readers will be hungry for Chiu'' first novel or second work of collected stories. " --Library Journal